Man with an axe arrested following fire at petrol station

Authorities have detained a man following a significant fire at a petrol station, which forced people to evacuate as flames consumed vehicles and fuel pumps. The incident took place on Broom Way in Lee-on-the-Solent at around 11:15 GMT on Thursday.

According to Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, witnesses reported seeing a man carrying an axe on the forecourt shortly before the fire erupted, which quickly spread to multiple cars and the petrol dispensers.

The man, who suffered burn injuries, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life. He was transported to a hospital for treatment of burns and smoke inhalation.

Firefighters managed to extinguish the blaze, and no further injuries were reported. A temporary road closure was implemented while emergency services handled the situation, but the road has now been reopened.

Author: Ava Mitchell